About
About Coach Pete
Southwest Florida’s Trusted PPR & DUPR Certified Pickleball Coach, Pro Player & Tournament Director
Hi, I’m Pete D., a lifelong athlete and passionate coach with a love for helping players of all skill levels improve their pickleball game. From beginners learning the basics to seasoned players preparing for tournament competition, I’m here to bring experience, energy, and expert-level instruction to every lesson.
My Background in Racket Sports
I started playing tennis at age 3, inspired by my mom, and went on to become a four-year starter for the Longmeadow Lancers, helping our team win four straight Western Massachusetts Division titles. I continued my tennis career at Frostburg State University, where I played all four years and later became Assistant Coach for the women’s team.
After earning my Bachelor's in Communications and later an MBA (Magna Cum Laude) from Hodges University, my journey took a game-changing turn—literally—when I discovered pickleball at the US Open in Naples in 2017.
One hit, and I was hooked
My Pickleball Career & Tournament Success
History
2018
2018 AAU Indoor Championship Bronze Medalist
2018
2019
2019 US Open Gold Medalist
2019
2019
Tournament Director – 2019 World Pickleball Championship in Punta Gorda (first-ever $100,000 prize pool)
2019
2019
Tournament Director – 2019 Pickleball Global Challenge Cup (featuring top 25 players in the world)
2019
2020
2020 AAU Indoor Championship Silver Medalist
2020
2021
As a certified pickleball instructor since 2021, I’ve helped hundreds of players unlock their potential.
2020
2022
Assistant Director – 2022 Hurricane Ian Pro/Am Benefit Tournament
2022
2022
Tournament Director – 2022 Royal Rumble, Fort Myers
2022
2023
2023 Southern Tropics Gold Medalist
2023
2024
2024 Hopen Open Gold Medalist (Mixed 4.5+)
2024
2025
Cape Coral Open Gold Medalist (Mixed 4.5+)
2025
2025
I partnered with the Boston Red Sox Spring Training team for a Pickleball Day activation, further blending community, sport, and fun.